Health care personnel's perception of infection control

Although the administration believes the 20-year-old infection program at the authors' institution has been effective in reducing nosocomial infection risk, the perceptions of nurses and physicians were unknown. Two hundred and twenty-seven nurses and 50 physicians were surveyed to determine their concept of infection control. Of all surveyed, 97% considered handwashing the most critical aspect of infection control and felt that additional teaching would increase this practice. Although physicians (40%) and nurses (30%) surmised the major infection control problem was lack of handwashing, 95% of physicians and 90% of nurses believed they personally washed their hands correctly and appropriately. One-half of all surveyed were not able to define 'asepsis' correctly. Sixty percent of nurses and 70% of physicians were not familiar with a monthly nosocomial report. On-site inspections and more educational programs were the primary recommendations of nurses and physicians. Of all participants, 99% could name the infection control nurse, whereas only 11% could name the infection control committee chairman. Although most infection control nurses feel they create a negative impression when they make rounds, the attitudes of nurses (81%) and physicians (68%) were positive. It is concluded that the perception of infection control differs among nurses and physicians. An effective infection control program must address the specific needs of all groups.